Find out everything you need to know about wedge bounce; why it matters and how to pick the best bounce for your swing.
If you've ever bought a new wedge, tried to follow a shortgame youtube tutorial or read any instruction manual, it's likely you've heard the phrase "wedge bounce".
But what is wedge bounce and why is it so important?
Wedge bounce
Put simply, bounce is just the bottom part of the golf club. It's the bit that hits the ground whenever you play a shot, and is measured in degrees.
Bounce ranges from low (from around 4 degrees) to high (anything above 10 degrees), with medium bounce in between (around 7 degrees). The higher the bounce, the bigger the angle between the leading edge and the trailing edge of the golf club.
Understanding what bounce is right for you is less about your handicap or ability, but more about the way you swing the club; whether you have a steep, shallow or neutral angle of attack.
High bounce
You need a high bounce wedge (more than 10 degrees) if you're regularly playing from soft, fluffy lies or bunkers with lots of soft sand.
A high bounce wedge will generate a lot of spin, meaning you'll have a lot of control over the ball. And as they won't dig into the ground or drag in the sand, they're great if you're someone who takes deep divots.
Medium bounce
Medium or mid-bounce wedges (around 7 degrees) are the most versatile.
They work for almost any swing type, they're great on firm or normal lies and will help you achieve optimal trajectory and distance control.
Low bounce
Picture this: you're faced with a lob shot, over a bunker, with no green to play with. And you've got a super tight lie.
Before you run for the hills, this is where a low bounce lob wedge is perfect. It will guide over the ground, without digging in, letting you hit a Mickleson-esque flop onto the green.
Low bounce wedges (around 4 degrees) are perfect for hitting from tight lies and bunkers with coarse sand. They're designed for really clean contact with the ball, and to give you more precision.
They're great if you have a shallow, sweeping swing and don't tend to take much of a divot.
Why does it matter?
Bounce has a signifcant impact your wedge play. Picking a club with the right bounce maximises your chance of striking the ball properly, with optimal control and spin – even if you don't always hit quite right.
It can mean the difference between leaving the ball in bunker or getting up and down to save par.
Ultimately, choosing the right bounce angle for you means you'll have a wedge that is more forgiving.
